Criers

Criers, also known as town criers, are individuals who publicly proclaim information by voice in public spaces. The term can refer to ceremonial or official heralds who historically delivered legal notices, market announcements, or news in communities with limited literacy or local literacy. A cryer typically announced proclamations, warnings, and events on behalf of a town, city, or ruler, serving as a primary channel of information before newspapers and modern communications.

In medieval and early modern Europe, criers were common in towns and markets. They would travel through streets or stand at central locations, using a loud voice, a handbell, a staff, or a drum to draw attention. They often wore distinctive clothing as part of their official role, and some issued written proclamations prepared by authorities. In England, the town crier's office had formal status, and the ritual often featured the cry starting with “Oyez” (hear ye) to gather bystanders.

Similar roles existed in other regions under various titles, such as cryers, heralds, or bellmen. The practice declined with rising literacy, the spread of newspapers, and postal and telecommunication networks, though some places preserve the office in ceremonial form or as a tourist attraction. Modern town criers may accompany civic events, read proclamations, or perform as historical demonstrations.

Today the term “crier” is primarily of historical interest in the study of urban communication and public announcements. The plural “criers” denotes individuals who carried out this function in the past or in ceremonial contexts.